by Carla Noah Stutsman
Deputies looking to assist what appeared to be a couple of stranded motorists noticed a strong odor that led them to investigate a little further over the weekend.
That investigation, in turn, led to the arrest of an Azle man and the confiscation of marijuana.
According to a press released from Parker County Sheriff Larry Fowler, the deputies were on routine patrol in the 4000 block of Midway Road when they saw two men walking toward a vehicle about 2:30 a.m. Sunday, June 9.
The deputies stopped to see if they could lend a hand, but noticed the distinct smell of burned marijuana coming from both the vehicle and the two men.
As the men entered the car, deputies saw two bags of suspected marijuana on the floorboard. The pot was in plain view and within reach of the vehicle’s driver, according to Fowler.
Cameron James Swink, 20, of Azle, admitted to deputies the marijuana belonged to him.
A search of the vehicle turned up a box containing clear plastic baggies along with digital scales, which are commonly used in the sale, use, and distribution of narcotics, Fowler said.
Deputies also found a portable safe in the trunk of the vehicle, which contained five additional baggies. The quintet contained even more suspected marijuana, according to Fowler.
Swink told deputies the safe belonged to a family member.
Swink was arrested and charged with possession of marijuana over four ounces/under five pounds.
His bond was set at $10,000. As of Tuesday afternoon, Swink remained incarcerated at the Parker County Jail.
The passenger was released at the scene.